Utes Defense Limits Prolific Washington State Offense
Sep 28, 2019, 11:35 PM | Updated: 11:48 pm
Rodrick Fisher #88 of the Washington State Cougars breaks a tackle attempt by Bradlee Anae #6 of the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium on September 28, 2019 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
(Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The University of Utah had a great showing by their defense in their 38-13 win over the Washington State Cougars.
Entering the game, WSU averaged the second-most yards of total offense in the country with 605, including the most passing yards in the nation with 499.5 per game.
Utah’s defense held the Cougars offense to 313 total yards and 252 yards through the air.
UTES WIN! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/9N2A2deGCf
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) September 29, 2019
They also forced two turnovers with interceptions by cornerback Jaylon Johnson and linebacker Francis Bernard.
A lot of criticism came the way of the Utes secondary entering the Saturday night matchup after allowing 368 passing yards and 381 total yards on offense in their 30-23 loss to the USC Trojans last Friday.
Offense Rolling
Utah played without two of their offensive weapons in running back Zack Moss and wide receiver Britain Covey, who were out with undisclosed injuries.
Quarterback Tyler Huntley stepped up with four total touchdowns, two through the air and two on the ground. He completed 21 of his 30 pass attempts for 334 yards as well as six rushing attempts for 31 yards.
During the second quarter, Huntley passed Alex Smith for sixth in school history in career passing yards.
TOUCHDOWN, @_SNOOP1 ! 🙌How we feeling, Ute Nation? 😎
Utah 38 – 13 pic.twitter.com/JaaKjcspTd
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) September 29, 2019
Devonta’e Henry-Cole led the rushing attack for the Utes with 79 yards. Wide receiver Bryan Thompson hauled in four catches for 111 yards, while Samson Nacua caught five passes for 90 yards and a touchdown.
Up Next
The Utes improved to 4-1 overall and 1-1 in Pac-12 play. They will have a bye this week and will travel to Oregon State on October 12. The time and broadcast is to be determined.
